Driver injured in chuckwagon races at Houston Rodeo

HOUSTON, Texas – A chuckwagon driver injured in a race at Houston Rodeo is expected to make a full recovery.

Driver Gary Sandstead was competing in the chuckwagon races Tuesday night, when he fell off his wagon during a turn. Houston Rodeo reported on Facebook Wednesday, Sandstead hurt his shoulder during the accident but is expected to be fine.

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The chuck wagon driver from last night's rodeo performance sustained a shoulder injury and was transported to an area...

Posted by RODEOHOUSTON on Wednesday, March 2, 2016

Several witnesses said it all happened fast and unexpected.  

"He just tumbled and went limp," said Cindy Burke, who was inside the arena when it happened.  "It was very, very scary and then the horse went crazy."

One of the horses ran into the wall after the driver fell. Veterinarians at Houston Rodeo evaluated the horse before releasing it to the owner. After an examination, Houston Rodeo said the horse's injuries were minor. The horse is expected to make a full recovery. 

Dan Cheney, the vice-president of Houston Rodeo, said Sandstead was treated by Rodeo Houston Sports Medicine staff and then taken to the hospital for further treatment.

Houston Rodeo officials said the driver was awake and alert when he left.  

A source said one of the horses ran into a wall and suffered a concussion. Officials said the horse was up and walking around and is expected to be okay.